A central tenant of the embattled performing arts precinct has spoken out against the city council's decision to repair the Town Hall, saying it leaves a ''paltry sum'' for the buildings needed to house Christchurch's arts organisations.

Christchurch City Council has underestimated its share of rebuilding the earthquake-shattered city by at least $534 million, according to a new report out today. And the report says the cost black-hole will "most likely be much...

On the nights of February 13 to 15, 1945, Allied bombers carpet-bombed the German city of Dresden. The resultant firestorms killed an estimated 35,000 people, although the total number is disputed. The historic centre was destroyed.

SURF founder Tony Brooks, who owns Pierside Cafe and Bar, has been working closely with the New Brighton Business and Landowners Association to attract investment to the community with earthquake-damaged properties, repeated flooding and less retail interest.